UMBC Tutors Presenting at Mid-Atlantic WC Conference

Thu, 01 Mar 2018 13:37:34 -0500

Three Writing Center tutors and the director will travel to Rowan University March 23rd and 24th to present their ideas at the Mid-Atlantic Writing Center Association (MAWCA) Conference!

Here is what they will be talking about:

Olivia Hardy (Health Administration and Policy Program):

In a story session style presentation, I plan to explain how I find myself actively trying to dismantle some of the connotations that surround the writing center, and how I place an importance on establishing acceptance and creating a safe space where individuals from every background feel that they have a safe space on campus.

This is in part achieved by 1.) being individual and 2.) being accepting.

Tanya Ramsey (Psychology/Social Work) and Domenique Brown (English/Psychology):

"Narrating Past Privilege Through Social Identity"

In order to evaluate the perpetuation of dominant cultural values in writing, participants will have the opportunity to complete self-assessments to discover the degree of privilege that has affected them personally as well as explore their social identity in concrete terms. The group will collectively debrief after each assessment by engaging in a reflective dialogue and answering questions of how this activity has enlightened their position within the workplace and respectfully discuss dynamics that these differences may present.

Elaine MacDougall (Director of the Writing Center/English Lecturer)

"The Power of Silence and Stillness in Writing Center Conversations"

Many of our conversations today are fragmented and distracted due to our fast-paced, technological world. Creating a space where silence, stillness, and listening are encouraged can deepen our conversations and connections in the Writing Center, which could help reduce anxiety surrounding the writing process.

Stop by the Writing Center and see our work for yourself!! Link to our schedule below!